Hands-on Algal Identification Training for Local Waterfront Professionals

This one-day workshop is designed for professionals who work along the Twin Ports waterfront and will be hosted by the Institute on the Environment at the University of Minnesota Duluth with support from Minnesota Sea Grant.

Developed in 2025, this training equips local waterfront professionals with the skills to confidently identify cyanobacterial (blue-green algae) blooms, practice field and lab observation techniques, and apply rapid-response tools to better understand and address bloom events. 

Cyanobacterial blooms—once rare in the St. Louis River Estuary and Lake Superior’s nearshore—have become increasingly common over the past decade. These greenish streaks raise concerns about potential toxicity and health risks, making timely identification and assessment essential. 

Participants in this interactive training will:

• Learn field observation techniques, including bloom “tells” and the jar test, to evaluate the presence of blue-green algae
• Practice microscopy using samples of local toxin-producing cyanobacteria
• Explore recent research on the use of algal toxin test strips
• Take part in a lab session testing various strip types with both live cultures and prepared samples
• Discuss how to integrate these skills and tools into their daily work
   

This workshop is designed to build confidence and capacity for early detection and response to harmful algal blooms in the region.